Photo: Portland Trail Blazers/X

Deandre Ayton has officially reached an agreement with the Los Angeles Lakers on a two-year contract worth $16.6 million, beginning with a salary of $8.1 million in the 2025-26 season.

The second year of the deal includes a player option, giving Ayton the ability to test free agency again in the summer of 2026 if he chooses.

This signing follows Ayton’s recent buyout with the Portland Trail Blazers, finalized just ahead of the opening of free agency.

The player agreed to forfeit $10 million of his guaranteed $35.6 million salary for the 2025-26 season to facilitate the buyout, allowing him to become an unrestricted free agent.

The Lakers had been actively seeking an upgrade at the center position to support Luka Doncic and better balance their frontcourt rotation.

The former No. 1 overall pick brings size, athleticism, and scoring touch around the rim – skills the Lakers hope will bolster their lineup on both ends of the floor.

Ayton, who turned 27 earlier this month, averaged 14.4 points, 10.2 rebounds, and 1.6 assists per game over 40 appearances with the Blazers last season.

While Portland praised his mentorship of rookie center Donovan Clingan, internal frustrations reportedly grew over his inconsistent effort and professionalism, which contributed to their willingness to move on from the veteran big man.

The Milwaukee Bucks were also reportedly interested in signing Ayton before securing Myles Turner via free agency.

With Turner off the market and Ayton now in Los Angeles, the Lakers appear to have secured one of the more impactful big men still available this summer – and at a significant discount from his previous salary.

The big man now joins a Lakers roster that has undergone considerable transition around Doncic this offseason.

With a new opportunity to contribute on a contending team, Ayton has a chance to re-establish his value and possibly play his way into a more lucrative contract when his player option comes due.

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